<p>The problem with BME and premed is, it’s a flawed plan because the information about BME is misleading. A lot of rising seniors and incoming freshmen believe, BME is an upcoming field, its one the fastest growing fields, and because it’s a field of engineering they will be able to get a job as a BME if med school doesn’t pan out. The reality is, that doesn’t happen, for the following reasons (in no particular order). 1, BME curriculum is too broad, causing graduates to become generalists. Some students believe that is an advantage, but it is actually a disadvantage, because instead of hiring a team of generalists who don’t have enough knowledge, companies form a team of specialists to collaborate. In many cases, a BME grad is overlooked for a MechE ChemE or EE grad.
2 issue, BME is a very small field. This causes a problem because jobs are hard to come by in your field, and higher paying jobs are even harder.</p>
<p>For this reason, many BME grads must go to grad school to work in the field. However, you don’t need a BME undergrad degree for BME post grad degree. Essentially, at this point in time, there is no advantage for BME. </p>
<p>Similarly, the same can be said about students who hedge their bets with med school and BME. If they go to med school, then the bme portion is useless. Alternatively, they don’t go to med school, they would need to do grad school regardless. Essentially, different path, same end point. The difference is, BME is more difficult and longer path for med school compared to bio and biochem. </p>
<p>I’m assuming you understand this to some degree which is why you chose chemical engineering. I advise against it. ChemE is a very intensive major and adding premed courses may make your classes unbearable. There are not many free electives in engineering. Not to mention, the additional coursework may reduce your gpa. Even for engineering, you want your gpa as high as possible. hedging your bets may be detrimental to you. “Chasing two rabbits, catching none” type of deal.</p>
<p>If you are serious about being a physician, the easiest would be biology, second biochem, third chem. In order, they generally have easier course work and less coursework. If you maintain a high gpa high mcat score and do internships your likelyhood to med school is quite good. </p>